Celebrating a Friend, Supporting a Family

The life of Jeff Bogetti, who died on May 30, was celebrated with a "beach picnic" gathering of about 500 attendees at Groundworks @Hrens in Amagansett Thursday evening. The Rev. Constantine Lazarakis of the Greek Orthodox Church in Southampton, of which Jeff and his wife, Stephanie, were members, said to applause, that "we're all here because of Jeff -- it's his spirit that has brought us together. . . . Let us cherish every moment in life, as Jeff did."

Mr. Bogetti, who was 46, was involved with the East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue Squad and was an instructor of junior lifeguards. He died of brain cancer. The picnic was also a way for friends and the community to support his wife, Stephanie, and their children, Zachary, 17, and Georgica, 15.

Stephanie Bogetti, Jeff Bogetti's wifeJack Graves

It was a family affair, billed as a "Main Beach-style" barbecue.Jack Graves

Money raised from the sale of bracelets will help the Bogetti family.Jack Graves

T.J. Calabrese, one of Mr. Bogetti's close friends, also worked with him on the Ocean Rescue Squad.Jack Graves

Jeannine Ryan, a Bogetti family friend who teaches art at the Westhampton Beach Elementary School, helped other friends craft a beautiful casket for Mr. Bogetti made of driftwood and beach glass.Jack Graves

Jim Nicoletti, left, and Ed McDonald, the managers of Main Beach in East Hampton, were among the many in attendance.